Sun Property Group (SPG) has taken a major step to reinforce its commitment to consumer trust by securing Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) from Resilience Insurance for its nearly completed Willoughby development on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

The boutique project, Aurora, comprising 12 apartments and a ground-floor commercial space, is one of few in the region to adopt the forward-thinking insurance model—offering a point of difference in a competitive market.

For Cameron Johnson, General Manager at Sun Property Group, the decision to adopt LDI was rooted in the company’s long-standing philosophy of maintaining a highly personalised relationship with its end users.

“We’ve always taken ownership over our product,” Johnson said. “Introducing LDI is not just about peace of mind for the buyer—it’s about raising the internal bar. It becomes the baseline for how we do things going forward.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205006]

While hundreds of developers and builders have taken out an LDI policy from Resilience Insurance, the insurance is still relatively new to Australia. Johnson says he sees significant future potential with LDI nationwide, with both&nbsp;regulatory and market frameworks starting to evolve to support its wider use in class two buildings.

“When we started the Willoughby project, LDI was still just a concept being floated by the Building Commissioner’s office," Johnson says.

"Delays in the construction timeline gave us the unique opportunity to adopt it as the product became more available in late 2023."

That timing aligned with a shift in construction contractors on the project, which opened the door for a more collaborative and considered implementation of the insurance. According to Johnson, Resilience Insurance was proactive and solution-oriented.

“It wasn’t just about us buying a product off the shelf. It was a dialogue—how can we work together to deliver something that meets both of our needs?” he added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=5717]

LDI covers major structural defects for up to 10 years post-completion and offers an alternative to the traditional developer bond held under the Department of Fair Trading’s scheme. SPG prudently factor in a two per cent cost profile for such measures into its feasibility, treating it as “business as usual.”

“What LDI does is show the consumer that we’re front-ending our responsibilities—design, delivery, documentation, execution. That whole chain of custody is assessed and independently reviewed throughout construction. It’s a rubber stamp on quality,” Johnson said.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator. While some projects may carry an iCIRT rating, few offer the depth of protection and oversight that LDI provides, especially outside of publicly listed organisations.

Aurora is being brought to market by Henry Burke of McGrath Projects. With the recent cut in interest rates Burke expects that many first home buyers and investors will jump at the chance to buy in Aurora due to its convenient location, fantastic retail amenity, picturesque parks with leafy walks, and excellent transport connections with only one stop to Sydney CBD. He expects a local owner-occupier to secure the standout penthouse which offers 175 sqm of internal space and further 200 sqm of outdoor space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205010]

Johnson says Aurora residents will not only benefit from the first right insurance policy, which means action is taken immediately rather than often long and complicated battles as developers and builders point fingers at each other as to who created the issue, but from how it can benefit the strata communities of the building.

Many buyers, especially first-time apartment owners, have limited understanding of shared infrastructure or the responsibilities of Owners Corporations. LDI adds an important layer of education, structure, and protection.

“People want to move in and enjoy what they’ve bought. But when things go wrong, that’s when emotions and stress levels rise. The insurance policy gives owners a clearer path to resolution—an assured, regulated compensation process. It also helps equip owners and managers with the knowledge they need to maintain the building properly.”

The insurance includes tools such as service penetration matrices and access documentation—going far beyond standard build drawings. Johnson says it’s about delivering not just a home, but a sustainable, manageable asset.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=343670]

Sun Property Group continues to build on its strong track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with an upcoming major development of its Bowen Street, Chatswood landholdings and additional projects underway in Melbourne. The team recently completed its debut Melbourne apartment project, The Brookville in Toorak, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality, design-led communities.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator

Joel Robinson

Sun Property Group approaches completion of Willoughby's first apartment development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Renowned developer-builder DASCO has unveiled its much-anticipated new development in the heart of Epping.

The architectural brief for Turner Studio was to “create a community where residents are completely immersed in a paradise for the senses.”

The result is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/senso-epping-242-244-beecroft-road-epping-nsw-2121">Senso</a>, a series of buildings that have been oriented around an unrepeatable 10,000 sqm-plus site to create a facility-laden, landscape-first precinct, something of which Epping and its surrounds have not seen before.

There are 479 apartments available in a variety of floorplans across the five buildings, a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in addition to a curated penthouse collection.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4553]

The apartments have been designed to appeal to the owner-occupier market, with generous floorplans, premium materials, and optional upgrades including integrated refrigeration, bespoke joinery, and motorised blinds.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, who builds its own developments, is once again bringing peace of mind to its clients by taking the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy offered by Resilience Insurance, which protects buyers against any structural or waterproofing issues for 10 years post completion of the building. This insurance can only be taken out by the builder or developer and not by individual apartment owners.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4552]

DASCO is known for creating more than just apartments — they create places where people connect. Senso will have over 4,000 sqm of resort-inspired communal amenity in the form of two rooftop pools, a celestial outdoor cinema, wellness club, sensory walk, and an observation deck, in addition to multiple BBQ and outdoor communal areas on multiple levels, intended to deliver a complete lifestyle offering within the residential environment.

There will be over 800 sqm of retail space on street level, which will likely be run as hospitality venues.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Located adjacent to the new Epping Town Centre masterplan, and just a five-minute walk from Epping Metro Station, Senso offers seamless access to Macquarie Park, Chatswood and the Sydney CBD. Families who are interested in the large two- and three-bedroom apartments are within proximity to several regarded educational institutions including Macquarie University, James Ruse Agricultural High, and Cheltenham Girls School.

The project also leverages Epping’s growing dining and retail precinct, proximity to Macquarie Centre, and access to natural assets including Terrys Creek walking trails and Boronia Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4399]

With a 33-year track record and over 7,000 dwellings delivered, DASCO continues to develop and build; a business model that enables integrated delivery and peace of mind, especially when Senso is backed by Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), providing 10 years of protection for buyers at no additional cost.

The launch of Senso Epping reinforces DASCO’s active pipeline of Sydney-based developments at a time when the market is increasingly focused on owner-occupier appeal, delivery confidence, and long-term quality.

DASCO is partnering on Senso Epping with leading Australian alternative asset management firm Metrics, which has more than $30 billion in assets under management.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

DASCO reveals Senso, Epping’s first resort-style apartment development

Preliminary data by research giant Charter Keck Cramer reveals a 54 per cent decline in Build to Sell apartments across Australia's capital cities, while the Build to Rent boom continues with a 378 per cent increase over the last five years.

Charter Keck Cramer's upcoming National State of the Market Report - Key Metropolitan Areas, scheduled for release in September, will reveal&nbsp;a dramatic transformation in apartment supply patterns across Australia's capital cities between FY2016-2020 and FY2021-2025.

The Build to Sell (BTS) apartment sector has experienced a substantial contraction, with total supply falling by 54 per cent compared to the previous five-year period. The decline represents a reduction of 149,200 apartments across all capital cities.

<img alt="BTS Charter Keck Cramer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db2ddf3-e7c0-481f-b8b9-63efb365cb80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.26.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bsQl8inhZA7FeiPamnGvw1tse0obBdSd" />

Sydney led the downturn with a decrease of 73,600 apartments, followed by Melbourne (-42,800) and Brisbane (-26,800). Perth and Adelaide also recorded significant declines of 6,400 and 2,400 apartments respectively. Only Gold Coast and Canberra bucked the trend, with modest increases of 500 and 2,300 apartments.

In stark contrast, the Build to Rent (BTR) sector has emerged as a major force in the apartment market, recording a remarkable 378% increase in supply. This growth added 8,590 apartments across the capital cities during FY2021-2025. Melbourne dominated BTR growth with 6,160 additional apartments, while Sydney contributed 2,100 units. Brisbane and Canberra also recorded growth of 800 and 330 apartments respectively. Gold Coast and Perth recorded minor declines, while Adelaide maintained steady levels.

<img alt="BTR CKC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca13ffd4-ab93-4828-afd2-4c3dccbd2b51" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.28.54%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=SXNnpcJuFD36ViWOwF6izBBqcQc3NWao" />

“These preliminary findings indicate a fundamental shift in Australia's apartment development landscape, with traditional Build to Sell models giving way to institutional Build to Rent developments,” said Richard Temlett, Charter Keck Cramer’s National Executive Director of Research.

"This transition reflects changing investor preferences, regulatory environments and housing affordability challenges across major metropolitan areas.”

The complete Charter Keck Cramer National State of the Market Report – Key Metropolitan Areas will provide comprehensive analysis of these trends, their underlying drivers and implications for developers, investors and policymakers when released in September.

Build to Sell apartment supply drops 54% in five years across Australian capital cities

Verso Development Group is seeking to bring over 1,100 apartments to the heart of Brisbane's Toowong, with plans filed for a $1 billion, triple tower development known as Toowong Central.

The landmark urban regeneration project "aims to reshape the core of Brisbane’s inner-west riverside suburb."

Covering over 1.4-hectares across&nbsp;Sherwood Road, High Street, and Jephson Street, Toowong Central has been designed by KHA and will comprise three towers rising 49, 55, and 58 levels.

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48611e3d-7123-4b99-b2cb-bfa4bc98024f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenities.png?VersionId=yKBexB.BgCkq4OET8fHDkWs0d3DjxOKJ" />

According to the Urban Context Report prepared by Urbis, Toowong Central is positioned as a “city-defining precinct reclaiming Toowong as ‘the best destination in the west’,” with a vision to deliver density differently, strengthen Toowong’s identity, and lead subtropical urban design.

There will be a wide range of apartment configurations, from one-bedrooms to five-bedroom penthouses, as well as short-term accomodation offerings. The design prioritises pedestrian permeability, with an activated public realm featuring a central civic plaza, laneways, and street-level retail and dining.

“The central square’s structure, programming, scale and location creates a social anchor - shaped by its edges, flexible for use, and animated by a diversity of experiences throughout the day and into the evening,” the Urban Context Report noted, reinforcing the project's ambition to become a vibrant community destination.

Design excellence was pursued through an international design competition, attracting entries from renowned practices such as UNStudio and BIG. KHA’s winning design distinguished itself with a ceremonial approach to the public realm, integrating terraces, tiered seating, and green infrastructure to promote social interaction and resilience.

The development builds upon two existing approvals: the 25- and 20-storey towers of the Aviary Toowong proposal, and a separate 25- and 24-storey approval at 88 Jephson Street. Consolidation of these fragmented landholdings under a precinct-wide approach allows for increased community value and cohesive urban integration.

Urbis Director Nicholas Stevenson said Toowong Central will bridge the gap in Toowong's current experience, unlocking the potential of the wider precinct.

"Overcoming experiential constraints and leveraging contextual advantages – Toowong Central will redefine Brisbane's inner west.”

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73f7a702-625d-452d-9df2-30a0863ac1e8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/master.png?VersionId=TZdh6wxGC_8IIroXpdkZfuhlS8mFZnea" />

Toowong Central’s ambition extends beyond residential and commercial outcomes. Uses under consideration include a world-class hotel, university facilities, a museum, and health and wellness services, reflecting its role as a western gateway to Brisbane’s growing innovation corridor between the CBD and the University of Queensland.

Urbis Managing Partner James Tuma said Brisbane has no greater opportunity to showcase the future of urban living than Toowong – a sustainable, economically vibrant, and people-centric place that embodies the best of Brisbane.

[The plans] gives us a glimpse into our future as a globally relevant, youthful, entrepreneurial, and distinctly subtropical city.”

$1 billion Toowong Central to deliver 1,100 apartments to undersupplied Brisbane market

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/runaway-bay-qld-4216">Runaway Bay</a>, new townhouse-scale waterfront residences are rare - but ones built to the standards found on Sovereign Island are almost unheard of.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/ocean-suites-on-jennifer-10-12-jennifer-avenue-runaway-bay-qld-4216">Ocean Suites on Jennifer</a>&nbsp;changes that, delivering a calibre of construction and detailing that places its seven villas well above the typical market offering in this northern Gold Coast pocket.

Ocean Suites on Jennifer will be move-in ready before Christmas this year, giving buyers the chance to spend the summer on the water in one of Runaway Bay’s rare new waterfront residences.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214444]

The development is a collaboration between <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/stuart-osman">Stuart Osman Design</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sand-side-developments">Sand Side Developments</a>, with construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/alroe-constructions">Alroe Constructions</a>.

Architect Stuart Osman says the intent from the outset was to create a home people would be drawn to. “When you build anything, the design is to make you want to go hang out in this house,” he says.&nbsp;

Ocean Suites on Jennifer’s design features a front façade softened with planter boxes, rear pool areas, and rooftop decks looking over the water.&nbsp;

Inside, voids and high skylights bring daylight deep into the centre of each home, while ceiling heights of 2.85 metres maintain a strong sense of volume.

Each four-level residence spans 345 to 388 sqm, with layouts accommodating multi-generational living - a ground-floor bedroom suite for older family members and upper levels for the rest of the household. A lift connects all floors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214435]

For Andrew Erwin, Director at NPA, the project’s appeal lies in both its location and the detail in execution.&nbsp;

"At Ocean Suites, you’ve got a canal-front setting with direct Broadwater access and a level of finish you’d normally only see in the city’s most prestigious addresses. The four-level layouts, the glass-framed living areas, the private pools, even the extended kitchens, every part of it has been designed with the buyer in mind,” he says.

Those buyers have so far been a mix of Gold Coast locals and interstate purchasers, many seeking a lock-up-and-leave holiday home or a downsized residence without sacrificing space for visiting family.&nbsp;

Older households with teenage children are a recurring profile, drawn to layouts that support multi-generational living and the ability to host extended stays.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214432]

Material selection reinforces the project’s quality-first ethos, with every home appointed to a premium standard. Kitchens and ensuites feature engineered stone surfaces, complemented by prestige oak engineered timber floors, Victorian ash hardwood staircases, and soft loop-pile carpet.

Premium lighting, statement pendants, ceiling fans, and Fujitsu ducted air conditioning elevate both comfort and design. Each residence also includes a suite of high-end appliances as standard - Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated fridges, Bosch ovens, induction cooktops and dishwashers, Vintec wine fridges, and Franke sinks.

Beyond the interiors, residents enjoy an enviable lifestyle with rooftop terraces, private plunge pools, fire pit areas, outdoor showers, smart home automation, laundry chutes, and private pontoons.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214452]

With no additional upgrade costs, Sand Side Developments underscores its no-shortcuts approach, delivering homes where luxury and amenity come as standard.

Osman adds that the kitchen has been designed as “the main hub of the house” with six metres high skylights above a galley-style layout that “makes it feel bigger, brighter, whiter” and “brings light into the centre of the home.”

Both architect and builder emphasise a shared commitment to delivering the intended design without compromise. “Working with Alroe’s structural team and their construction team, it’s been great to make sure that the look and feel that was originally intended is the result achieved at the end of the project,” Osman says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214453]

Outdoor living has been given equal consideration, with rooftop terraces designed for entertaining with a fire pit and bar, and spacious undercover patios featuring private plunge pools.

The marine access is as carefully executed as the homes themselves. An eight-metre gangway leads to a six-metre private pontoon capable of mooring vessels up to 30 feet, just 300 metres by water from the Broadwater.&nbsp;

Even the orientation of each villa has been optimised to capture long views down the canal, across the Broadwater, and south to Main Beach.

With construction in its final stages, just three of the seven villas remain, priced from $3.365 million to $3.695 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138718]

Sovereign Island standards come to Runaway Bay with Ocean Suites on Jennifer

City of Yarra

Commercial Property Hub is a user-friendly digital platform that streamlines the process of finding suitable commercial properties in the City of Yarra and the City of Port Phillip.

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D43Ldrb12rs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

It offers an extensive database of commercial properties details, including details about zoning, overlays, and demographic information.

With this platform, businesses and individuals can identify properties that align with their specific needs and requirements.

The platform also provides links to council business concierge programs, which offer additional support to businesses to ensure their smooth operations.

Commercial Property Hub is a one-stop solution for businesses and individuals looking for hassle-free access to comprehensive information on commercial properties in the City of Yarra and the City of Port Phillip.

Commercial Property Hub is a user-friendly digital platform that streamlines the process of finding suitable commercial properties in the City of Yarra and the City of Port Phillip. 

Urban Editorial

Commerical Property Lookup Hub | City of Yarra of Port Phillip

<html><body>
Following on from Apartments.com.au's Top 5 Most Viewed <a href="/news/urbans-top-5-for-october-most-viewed-architects">Architects</a> and <a href="/news/urbans-top-5-for-october-most-viewed-suburbs">Suburbs</a> over the last two days, today we take a look at the Top 5 Most Viewed Local Government Area's (LGA).

Not surprisingly, looking at it in a Victorian context, the City of Melbourne takes out top spot, reflecting its status as one of the most desirable municipalities to reside within. 

The inner-city LGA's are proving the most popular with their access to employment, education, retail and dining, and well served by public transport.

<ul></ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/councils_graph_new.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="248" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/councils_graph_new.png?itok=GsdSzt2S" width="580"></a>

<figcaption> </figcaption></figure><ul></ul>
<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Melbourne%20%28City%29">1. City of Melbourne</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-council/our-profile/lord-mayor-and-councillors/Pages/lord-mayor-sally-capp.aspx">Mayor: Cr Sally Capp</a></li>
	<li>Population: 135,959 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 36.2 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 247</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Melbourne%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Yarra%20%28City%29">2. City of Yarra</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/about-us/council-people/councillors/councillor-daniel-nguyen">Mayor: Cr Daniel Nguyen</a></li>
	<li>Population: 86,657 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 20 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 163</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Yarra%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Port%20Phillip%20%28City%29">3. City of Port Phillip</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/gateway-ward-bernadene-voss.htm">Mayor: Cr Bernadene Voss</a></li>
	<li>Population: 100,863 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 20.62 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 110</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Port%20Phillip%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Moreland%20%28City%29">4. Moreland City Council</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.moreland.vic.gov.au/about-council/councillors/north-west-ward-councillors/cr-john-kavanagh-north-west-ward">Mayor: Cr John Kavanagh</a></li>
	<li>Population: 162,558 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 51 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 107</li>
</ul>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Moreland%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Stonnington%20%28City%29">5. City of Stonnington</a></h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.stonnington.vic.gov.au/Council/The-Mayor-and-Councillors/Mayor-Cr-Steve-Stefanopoulos">Mayor: Cr Steve Stefanopoulos</a></li>
	<li>Population: 103,832 (2016 census)</li>
	<li>Area: 25.62 sq km</li>
	<li>Number of projects in database: 146</li>
</ul>
Listen to our <a href="/guides">Podcast</a> with Steve <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-31-city-of-stonnington-mayor-cr-steve-stefanopoulos">here</a>.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Stonnington%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

As evidenced in the embedded maps, each of the five LGA's also have a strong development pipeline, which isn't necessarily reflected in their positions. Taking this into account the Top 5 would be:

<ol>
<li>City of Melbourne</li>
	<li>City of Yarra</li>
	<li>City of Stonnington</li>
	<li>City of Port Phillip</li>
	<li>Moreland City Council</li>
</ol>
Look out for the final piece in the series this Friday - Top 5 Most Viewed developers.
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Urban's Top 5 for October -  Most Viewed Local Government Areas

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Alastair runs through this week's news highlights - <a href="/news/traditional-residential-developers-cash-in-on-yarras-300000sqm-commercial-boom">City of Yarra and it's large commercial pipeline</a>, the Gold Coast's proposed ferry service and the Hurstbridge Line project proposal from the Victorian Government.

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/479975586&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=true&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
</body></html>

urban.com.au

Weekly Podcast: Episode 26 - City of Yarra's commercial project pipeline

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It hasn't materialised yet, but there's more than enough evidence to show that the eastern reaches of Richmond's Swan Street will become one of Melbourne's premier suburban development pockets.

The notion has been reinforced by two fresh commercial development applications that not only underpin Swan Street's looming development credentials, but those of City of Yarra's in general. The flight of developers to the municipality seeking to create 'new experience' commercial developments had been well documented of late.

Swan street though has yet to see any tangible construction activity, save for Olor Apartments. At 306 Swan Street, Olor with its 31 new apartments over 7 levels is the first salvo in a development push that will likely change the fundamental complexion of Swan Street east of Bridge Road.

Characterised by small retail and commercial premises along its flanks, Swan Street has a <a href="https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/the-area/planning-for-yarras-future/adopted-strategies-and-plans/structure-plans-and-local-area-plans">structure plan in place</a> that will allow for the transition away from an intimate small-scale streetscape to a medium and high-rise outcome, particularly so when heading east toward Burnley Station and surrounds.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image13_26.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bruce Henderson's latest alongside t-a square's effort"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_26.jpg?itok=SSwXMwVi" title="Bruce Henderson's latest alongside t-a square's effort" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bruce Henderson's latest alongside t-a square's effort</figcaption></figure>The developments in waiting are a clear indication that developers consider the area prime for renewal. Latest to enter the Apartments.com.au project database are a duo of boutique commercial developments.

439-443 Swan Street is a Bruce Henderson Architects-designed complex for Swan Street Property Pty Ltd. 10 levels is sought for the 603 square metre corner site, with a Net Leasable Area of 3,467 square metres.

A rooftop terrace and provisions for 54 vehicles and 43 bicycles are rolled into the design. Another 'pocket' development claiming a small development site is 389-393 Swan Street; t-a square architects have conceived a 9 level office complex incorporating 1,548 square metres of Net Leasable Area.

Both these projects join 345 Swan Street as being ideal smaller tenants or strata uses based upon site size and floorplate limitations.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image14_21.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Minicon have begun site works on Farmer, Cutter and Swan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_21.jpg?itok=lQWdnyJk" title="Minicon have begun site works on Farmer, Cutter and Swan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Minicon have begun site works on Farmer, Cutter and Swan</figcaption></figure>Highlighting the mixed-use nature of the emerging precinct, a quartet of developments are devoted to apartment and serviced apartment living.

Builder Minicon has taken Farmer, Cutter and Swan's 53 apartments to construction whilst Mitpit Constructions has signage up over 314-320 Swan Street. The Ewert Leaf-designed project will add private apartments, commercial office space and a sizeable serviced apartment component to the area.

Also looking to add serviced apartments is 291-295 Swan Street which went to planning during June. 

Next to launch publicly is TWO51. Backed by Blueprint Projects the pending sales campaign will launch 28 luxury apartments in to the marketplace at 251 Swan Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image22_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Swan Street's largest trio "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="480" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_18.jpg?itok=3nREoAYO" title="Swan Street's largest trio " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Swan Street's largest trio</figcaption></figure>The balance of projects destined for Swan Street are also the biggest. 

A permit is in place for the Bruce Henderson Architects-designed 370-374 Swan Street whilst 484-486 Swan Street is still at planning. Both commercial developments could add a combined 28,400 square metres of commercial office space to what is essentially a virgin area in terms of catering for major tenants with new commercial builds.

The closest precinct to see such large sized tenants drawn to the area is the Botanicca corporate park in adjacent Burnely.

Last cab off the Swan Street rank is 462-482 Swan Street with Bamfa Properties hoping to realise 200 plus apartments within dual buildings designed by Elenberg Fraser. Earlier designs for the site reached 17 levels although the current bid reaches 10 and 12 levels respectively.

Lead image: Bruce Henderson Architects
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silvermb

Future intent - profiling the impending rise of Swan Street

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Mark's <a href="/news/traditional-residential-developers-cash-in-on-yarras-300000sqm-commercial-boom">Friday article</a> on the commercial development pipeline for the City of Yarra is both impressive and worrying.  Impressive because 300,000 square metres of space, should it all be built and occupied, would represent around 20,000 new jobs contained within the municipality and worrying thanks to a lack of public transport priority, especially along the streets with tram routes.

Throw in the residential development pipeline - half of which is under construction and likely provide new homes for approximately 7000-8000 people - you have to wonder what the breaking point will be.

As Apartments.com.au user johnproctor <a href="/news/traditional-residential-developers-cash-in-on-yarras-300000sqm-commercial-boom#comment-33643">commented on Friday</a>, the 20,000 new employees/jobs figure comes from assuming that 1 employee takes up 15 square metres of total commercial space,

<blockquote>
Pretty amazing. that's roughly 20,000 workers coming to City of Yarra if it's all realised.

Will hopefully drive counter peak tram movements in the area (that are already quite strong) and should also drive high capacity on the 246 bus route linking people from the north to bigger office precinct south (Hurstbridge/Doncaster/Mernda PT users to Cremorne) and south to north (Richmond PT users to Collingwood/Abbotsford)
</blockquote>

The increased patronage and movements on the tram network are the most worrying because Victoria Street, for instance, does not have counter-peak clearways. 

At the city end there is a good quality interchange (where the emphasis is on frequency of multiple services) at Parliament station and the Macarthur Street tram stop. 

At St. Vincent's interchange and right down to Hoddle Street there is minimal priority given to trams at cross roads - especially at Hoddle Street but the worst part of the journey is beyond North Richmond Station to Victoria Gardens.

I've timed it multiple times, in both directions and at the extreme end, it's possible the journey between Victoria Gardens and Parliament station will take 20 minutes. That's a 2 kilometre trip - jogging pace.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
By the way, this is in school holidays <a href="https://t.co/nqKe5BamlQ">https://t.co/nqKe5BamlQ</a>
— Alastair Taylor (@tayser82) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/tayser82/status/1017674123982434304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2018</a>
</blockquote>

And while I deserve a slap over the wrist for being in a car at the time of taking that image above - I was the traffic - quite often I'm not and I'm one of the people travelling on one of those trams you can see attempting to crawl down Victoria Street.  In the evening peak clearways are in operation heading out of the city but the road is choked with parked cars in the counter-peak direction.

Victoria Street is only one of the major tram routes through Yarra and as Mark's article points out, the commercial development is occurring in Cremorne, Collingwood/Fitzroy - even on Hoddle Street - but what transport policies are in place to give public transport more priority in the area?

Yarra is served by the rail network from all major directions but trams and buses fighting for space on the road network are how most people get around the municipality.

Cremorne has a distinct advantage because much of the area is within a comfortable 10-minute walk of Richmond Station or East Richmond Station - and if they opened a northern entry to South Yarra station and improved pedestrian links across the river alongside the railway lines  - South Yarra would help in serving the tech &amp; marketing favoured area's employment growth.

Collingwood is serviced by the inner stations along the Hurstbridge/South Morang-Mernda railway lines but has Hoddle Street - a very pedestrian-unfriendly barrier - between the bulk of the suburb and the stations.  Like Fitzroy, Collingwood's public transport depends heavily on the radial tram routes and the cross-town smart bus routes on Johnson Street.

Tram services on Victoria Street, Brunswick Street, Smith Street, Bridge Road, Swan Street all, to varying degrees, have the misfortunate of being located within a narrow road corridor where the 'fight' over space, depicted in the tweeted image, is daily practice.

How many new office and residential buildings does it take before we see action on public transport priority on the City of Yarra's streets?

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">City of Yarra Residential Development Pipeline Status</th>
			<th scope="col">Dwellings</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Planning Assessment</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2030</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Approved</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2664</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">887</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Under Construction</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5359</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>TOTAL</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">10,940</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Lead image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Critical_Mass_Melbourne_-_Brunswick_St.JPG">wikipedia</a>
</body></html>

Alastair Taylor

Is it time to rethink on-street parking on tram routes in the City of Yarra?

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The sway toward commercial development within City of Yarra shows no signs of slowing, with Apartments.com.au tracking near on 300,000 square metres in development.

The intensifying trend continues to attract developers which have historically leaned on residential development. Latest to the fray is H&amp;F Property who is the applicant behind an 11 storey building at Abbotsford's 218-228 Hoddle Street, with a secondary frontage to Stafford Street.

Designed by Architectus, the $25 million application contains 7,389 square metres of space above three basement levels, and was submitted during April.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image41_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_11.jpg?itok=IPDT6ejE" title="Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lower level Hoddle Street expression. Planning image: Architectus</figcaption></figure>H&amp;F Property's bid is in addition to a bevvy of traditionally residential developers such as Caydon Property Group, Alpha14 Property Group, Pace Development Group, Beams Projects, GURNER, LK Property Group, Domain Hill Property Group and Peregrine Projects who are in the process of realising their respective first commercial developments, which all happen to fall within City of Yarra.

Add fellow development firms such as Lazzcorp, Alfasi Group, Salta Properties, Riverlee and Grocon who have a hand in active commercial developments within the municipality.

The result is an impressive 34 commercial projects on the go within City of Yarra according to Apartments.com.au's Project Database.

Planning agency Human Habitats provides a decisive overview as to why City of Yarra, in particular, is running hot with commercial development:

<blockquote>
At a local level, ongoing change in the structure of employment has begun across the City of Yarra in recent years with strong growth in property, business services, retail, and the finance and insurance sectors. This demand for employment has been welcomed considering the decline in wholesale and manufacturing sectors across the City of Yarra.

As traditional office locations such as the CBD and Docklands reach capacity, employment precincts such as Richmond/Cremorne have become increasingly attractive locations for office based employment. This location appears to cater for the continuing growth in small to medium sized business services and the ‘new economy’ employment of an increasingly skilled workforce.

The demand for additional office space is reflected in the effective rental growth in the City Fringe Areas (which include Richmond / Cremorne) which has experienced growth in the order of 20% over the year to March 2018, and which has featured a vacancy rate of below 3.5% for in excess of 18 months.

Real Estate Advisory firm Colliers are predicting that the underlying fundamentals of demand within this area are sustainable, and that demand will remain strong given Melbourne’s promising economic outlook and extraordinary population growth.
<cite>Human Habitats</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image44_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PACE Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="569" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_7.jpg?itok=VRSJUG5n" title="PACE Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace Development Group's Langridge Street commercial foray</figcaption></figure>PACE Development Group's expansion into the commercial market is via <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://maps.google.com/?q%3D51%2BLangridge%2BSt%26entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1532663610265000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFOy_B4o69T_VVVRtKPmZb_AgP0VQ" href="https://maps.google.com/?q=51+Langridge+St&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">51 Langridge St</a> in Collingwood, with the project's end value expected to surpass $25 million. 

Planning and Design Manager at Pace Development Group, Michael Holah. touches upon what makes City of Yarra an attractive proposition. 

<blockquote>
We see this striking a real chord with businesses wanting a contemporary upgrade, those priced out of suburbs such as Richmond and Cremorne, as well as those currently located in a co-working environment that have grown enough to warrant their own office space.

Unlike its CBD counterparts, this project is designed to capture the Collingwood feel and the ethos that the suburb stands for – SJB Architects has conceptualised something truly reflective of both the site’s surrounds and the cultures of the businesses that will grow here.

The smaller floor plates are exactly what the market is looking for.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image47_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image47_12.jpg?itok=UfKVmlU-" title="The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Hayball-designed 17-21 Harcourt Parade is due for a construction start</figcaption></figure>With yet more projects to be added, the Apartments.com.au Project Database tally sees 32 purely commercial projects and 2 mixed use developments listed within City of Yarra. These projects amount to some 292,100 square metres of commercial office space in development.

Only 7 developments are currently at construction and stand to add approximately 41,700 square metres of combined commercial stock, indicating that City of Yarra's commercial boom has some years yet to run.
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Traditional residential developers cash in on Yarra's 300,000sqm commercial boom

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26-56 Queens Parade has found planning resolution, with developer GURNER gaining approval via VCAT for the site which still remains steeped in controversy.

The success at VCAT comes after a marathon planning stint, seeing local discontent, intervention from Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne and ultimately VCAT deciding call. The Fitzroy North site can now progress to redevelopment for the purposes of 263 dwellings over the sprawling site.

Buildings of eight, nine and 10 storeys are approved, a far cry from the much denser 16 storey development that initially went to planning with 476 apartments in tow.

26-56 Queens Parade's path to approval was stymied after Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne intervened three days prior to the project's initial VCAT hearing, restricting any development over the site to 10 storeys.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image26_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="26-56 Queens Parade. Image: Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26_9.jpg?itok=8lsjv6CB" title="26-56 Queens Parade. Image: Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>26-56 Queens Parade. Image: Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>In a strongly worded press release, the developer has insinuated that the move by the Planning Minister was a politically motivated exercise, owing to the development falling within the minister's electorate. Ultimately GURNER cycled through a handful of planning sets and two architects prior to finding approval.

26-56 Queens Parade and nearby developments have been vehemently opposed by residents action groups such as Protect Fitzroy North.

With approval in the pocket, developer Tim Gurner has gone on the offensive once more, berating the planning process.

<blockquote>
It has been a challenging process for us but in terms of the actual effect on the project it is insignificant compared to the costs incurred by Council, taxpayers and other stakeholders.

For the Minister to claim that a project is of State Significance to warrant intervention and waste so much time and money for an outcome that represents just a 9 percent reduction in massing is ludicrous, however we are pleased with the outcome and believe this new design will deliver on our vision a world-class precinct for the area.

We held information sessions which the locals boycotted, then accused us of being closed to discussion – it was an intense period and one that we had never encountered before.

It is imperative that strategic planning is not affected by political intervention, particularly when the Planning Minister is conflicted and using his political power to influence planning matters in in his own electorate, when developers are acting within the Minister’s own planning guidelines.
</blockquote>

Comment was sought from the Planning Minister but no response was received prior to publishing.

Further project particulars see a 450 square metre central public place which includes dining and retail spaces. GURNER and Cox Architecture's approved scheme includes 23,250 square metres of Net Sellable Area and two basement levels.

GURNER have indicated the project will initiate sales during 2019 with construction also expected to begin the same year.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image31_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site aerial and new street level finish. Images: Yarra City Council and GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_12.jpg?itok=v9B7GiQf" title="Site aerial and new street level finish. Images: Yarra City Council and GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site aerial and new street level finish. Images: Yarra City Council and GURNER</figcaption></figure>Diagonally opposite the freshly approved site, GURNER is also pushing the merits of another site at planning. A new mixed-use building at 81-89 Queens Parade is planned, accounting for a 3,201 square metre triangular site that also fronts George Street.

Cox Architecture was also tasked with design duties, including a 1,732 square metre supermarket at ground level, 4,074 square metres of commercial office space and 110 serviced apartments.

If Gurner chooses to operate the serviced apartment component directly, it would represent the developer's first foray into the field. 81-89 Queens Parade's cost of development is estimated to be just shy of $30 million.
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Resentment remains as GURNER gains approval for Queens Parade

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With the impending Victorian Architecture Awards dinner, Apartments.com.au concludes its Road to the Victorian Architecture Awards 2018 series with the North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub - the first mixed-use public building to achieve a 6-Star Green Star rating in Victoria.

The awards are presented tonight.

Designed by GroupGSA, the new library and community hub has been shortlisted for awards in sustainable architecture, public architecture and Melbourne prize categories.

The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub has been conceived as a multi-use space that supports the learning, health and well-being of the community.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-641761.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub’s lush rooftop garden. Image: Tom Hutton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-641761.jpg?itok=cr_74oL2" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub’s lush rooftop garden. Image: Tom Hutton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub’s lush rooftop garden. Image: Tom Hutton</figcaption></figure>The building is home to the City of Yarra’s International House and includes a library, maternal child health facilities, in addition to a variety of community-focused facilities. 

Named ‘Bargoonga Nganjin’ which means ‘Gather Everybody’ in Woiwurrung - the language of the Wurundjeri people - the $17 million project was funded almost entirely by Council, and was the result of an extensive and exhaustive consultation process that included multiple stakeholders and the community.

GroupGSA says the design has driven a desire to create a socially inclusive space that integrated seamlessly with its local context, but was also had a minimal environmental footprint. 

The Library’s lush rooftop garden, exemplifies the potential for environmental design to draw people together, according to the architects.

Among the Library’s environmental features are its on-site power generation and pressurised air handling system incorporated into columns instead of bulkheads to maximise overhead space.

Additionally,  the architects specified locally-sourced materials, including reclaimed bricks from the surrounding area, to ensure product miles were minimised while also maintaining the character and materiality of North Fitzroy.

The architectural language of the Library reinforces this connection to its locale, with its triangular footprint taking inspiration from the old North Fitzroy post office building.

The community building features a bespoke screening mechanism, which became an integral part of the building’s external fabric, to manage glare and natural light. The perforated metal screens allows light to filter in and out, the design of which is derived from the trees in the Edinburgh Gardens, just immediately south of the site - using the local elements as a key to inform the design.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-644529.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub. Image: Tom Hutton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nflchentry-vzxvqeyw-644529.jpg?itok=Vdxm8Uvj" title="The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub. Image: Tom Hutton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub. Image: Tom Hutton</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The local people of North Fitzroy are an educated community that wanted to see a really robust sustainable outcome. We put the effort in to ensure all avenues were looked at, from energy use, to the lifecycle of the building, materials, orientation and water usage, all of those things.

We wanted to maximise the sustainable outcome of the building. “When designing this project, we took a pragmatic approach with regards to sustainability. The overarching aspect was to do all the basic elements really well in a way that related to the community and we’re really proud that this is the first time a six star green star rating has been awarded to a public mixed use building in Victoria.

To me one of the most eye catching of the green spaces is the rooftop garden. Featuring native plants and a productive garden, this area provides more than simple green respite on the site’s narrow footprint.

It has a cleverly integrated catchment system, positioned underneath the roof decking, which collects water to sustain landscaping as well as essential services for the whole building. Herbs and fruit trees on the roof supply the adjoining community kitchen, with students encouraged to pick things from the garden to use in cooking classes.

- Scott Francis, Principal, GroupGSA
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
This project exemplifies a leading approach to good sustainable design – in an environmental and social sense. Not only is it a building with leading green credentials but it has also been designed as a multipurpose and multi-generational space to support the diverse community of North Fitzroy.

The common denominator in successful projects is supportive and engaged clients who acknowledge the value that quality architecture interventions can bring to building strong and successful communities.

- Amy Muir, Victoria Chapter President of the Australian Institute of Architects
</blockquote>

Lead Image: Tom Hutton 
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Road to the Victorian Architecture Awards 2018: GroupGSA's North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub

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The completion of Dux Richmond Hill in recent days has added further weight to the strip's diversification away from being predominantly a retail zone.

In recent years Apartments.com.au has looked at the strip's retail woes, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/will-free-parking-save-bridge-road">potential solutions in fixing the faltering strip</a> and its <a href="https://urban.melbourne/planning/2015/05/06/bridge-roads-apartment-transformation-gathers-pace">drift toward apartment development</a>. Dux Richmond Hill at 153-177 Bridge Road has added a further 175 apartments, placing it as Bridge road's second largest apartment development delivered.

Developer Little Projects is mindful of the apartment wave that is providing Bridge road with a fundamental shift in how the strip is perceived.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image192.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Dux Richmond Hill by Little Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image192.jpg?itok=lNzF__Wx" title="The Dux Richmond Hill by Little Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Dux Richmond Hill by Little Projects</figcaption></figure>On the occasion of Dux Richmond Hill's completion Little Projects Development Director Leighton Pyke provided the following commentary regarding Bridge Road:

<blockquote>
New apartment buildings like Dux Richmond Hill are the catalysts for change we need to resurrect shopping strips like Bridge Road and give new purpose to its retail operations.

What we are seeing is a role reversal with residential now driving and attracting retail rather than it simply being a case of activity zones dictating development. There is genuine opportunity to be realised as new developments return foot traffic to strips that have long been starved of new blood.

Rather than trying to return them to their former glory, we should be driving the evolution of prime shopping strips like Bridge Road, Richmond, Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and Chapel St, South Yarra and reappropriating them for a new generation of residents.
</blockquote>

Little Projects notes that Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show that over 4,100 apartments have been built through established retail strips in Collingwood, Fitzroy, Northcote and Richmond since 2012, leading to a 5.5 per cent increase in the number of businesses trading along these strips.

Little Projects cite a further 3,600 apartments set for completion across these four locations by December 2020, which will further amplify the trend.

Leighton Pyke also provided comment on the type of retail tenancy supporting these new apartment developments:

<blockquote>
Yes, there is an undeniable shift in offering that needs to take place if we are to bring back beloved locations like Bridge Road but what’s exciting about this is the rich opportunities to be found here for those retailers who provide well-balanced food and service offerings that are tailored to suit the local audience

The feedback we have received is that the Dux Richmond Hill’s retail spaces are more adaptable than the traditional narrow Victorian terraces of Bridge Road, which are limiting in terms of their potential for fitouts and adaptive reuses.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/273_20-12-2017_3343.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SJB's Richmond Plaza design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/273_20-12-2017_3343.jpg?itok=s4kRiVW2" title="SJB's Richmond Plaza design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SJB's Richmond Plaza design</figcaption></figure>For Bridge Road specifically, there remains a solid pipeline of apartments in waiting. With Dux Richmond Hill complete, next to the construction starting line is <a href="/buildings/lanbruk-apartments-79-bridge-road-richmond">Lanbruk Serviced Apartments</a> at 79 Bridge Road.

Builder Minicon is charged with delivering the serviced apartment complex which will join Cobild's 10 level <a href="/buildings/frame-19-21-judd-street-richmond">Frame Apartments</a> at construction and the soon to be restarted <a href="/buildings/herbert-king-172-lennox-street-richmond">Herbert King</a>. The latter two projects are mere metres from Bridge Road.

A sweep of the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows hundreds of new apartments earmarked for Bridge Road across a further 10 developments.

Largest of these is Coles Group and Gresham Property Funds Management's approved development of <a href="/buildings/261-271-bridge-road-richmond">Richmond Plaza</a> which includes a slab of retail space and 300 plus apartments over 12 levels. Project architect notes the project's end value at $250 million.
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Bridge Road's latest development complete, what next for the rising apartment strip

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A sizeable slab of office space may be on its way to Fitzroy North as a new planning application seeks to replace a reception venue with a multi-level mixed-use building.

Moonlight Receptions at 622-636 Nicholson Street appears to have its days numbered with the development application registered with City of Yarra little more than a week ago. Rather than go down the proven path of apartments, a 10 level commercial building containing a Gross Floor Area of 16,950 square metres has been proposed.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image65_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_3.jpg?itok=BohkG5Hk" title="Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the proposal. Image: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Net Lettable Area within the Artisan Architects-designed project covers 10,605 square metres. The commercial aspect of the proposal is earmarked as standard office space alongside a medical centre and associated suites.

Artisan Architects note LKG as the applicant behind the proposal, which also features a ground floor supermarket and rooftop terrace.

Three levels of underground parking will service the proposal, with its overall development value pinned at $25 million.

In its current form, the Moonlight Receptions development would create a new height precedent for the area which maintains a predominantly low-rise and historic character to Nicholson Street. Any height parallels can be drawn with two residential buildings located behind the development site in question, with both those buildings set well back from Nicholson Street.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!4v1522016700764!6m8!1m7!1s08Q1OCHRNog-CW6ueGUqOg!2m2!1d-37.78468943571484!2d144.9771944285262!3f94.73092242678996!4f5.450559616288572!5f1.52841521987171" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

Roi Apartments and EV Apartments were built over recent years and stand approximately 50-60 metres back from Nicholson Street.

North of Alexandra Parade, Nicholson Street is bereft of any noteworthy commercial developments. Over recent years, whatever suitable development sites have become available have almost exclusively become high-density residential development.

This is particularly the case north of Brunswick Road; last year Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/nicholson-streets-apartment-activity-slips-into-top-gear">highlighted nine apartment projects in development</a> along the Nicholson Street strip.
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